Car Rental in Hurghada

Where to drive

• Luxor Day Trip: Drive about 4 hours (around 290 km) inland to Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes, home to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. This allows for flexible exploration beyond organized tours.
• El Gouna Exploration: A short 30-minute drive (about 25 km) north takes you to the upscale resort town of El Gouna, offering different dining, shopping, and beach experiences.
• Safaga Port and Beaches: Head south for about an hour (around 60 km) to Safaga, a port city known for its therapeutic black sand beaches and water sports opportunities.
• Mons Claudianus Roman Quarry: For the adventurous, drive roughly 2.5-3 hours (around 150 km) into the Eastern Desert to visit the ruins of an ancient Roman quarry, showcasing a different facet of Egypt's history.
• Soma Bay Resorts: About an hour's drive (around 50 km) south of Hurghada, Soma Bay offers pristine beaches, golf courses, and luxury resorts, perfect for a change of scenery or a day of relaxation.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Egypt, you generally need a valid international driving permit (IDP) along with your domestic driver's license. Your domestic license must have been held for at least one year. A passport is also required for identification. The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, though some companies may have a higher age requirement or charge a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Hurghada vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from approximately 25-35 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 60 USD upwards. Prices tend to increase by 20-40% during peak tourist seasons, especially around winter holidays and summer.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Egypt, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally around 60 km/h in urban areas, 90-100 km/h on open roads, and up to 120 km/h on major highways, though these can vary and are often posted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero. Headlights should be used at night and in low visibility conditions. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for young children, though availability from rental companies can vary.

Parking

Parking in Hurghada is generally available and often free, especially outside the main tourist areas. Many hotels and resorts offer private parking for guests. In busier areas like the Marina or downtown, you might find designated parking lots which may have a small fee. Street parking can be competitive but is usually manageable. Always ensure your vehicle is parked legally to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available in Hurghada and along major routes. Unleaded petrol and diesel are common. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally inexpensive compared to many Western countries, though they can fluctuate. Payment is typically in Egyptian Pounds (EGP), and cash is often preferred, though some larger stations may accept cards.

Which car to choose

For driving within Hurghada and to nearby resorts like El Gouna or Soma Bay, an economy or compact car is perfectly suitable due to ease of parking and fuel efficiency. If you plan longer trips to Luxor or wish to explore more rugged desert areas (with permission and guidance), an SUV with higher ground clearance would be more appropriate. An automatic transmission is highly recommended for comfort, as manual cars are less common among rental fleets and can be less convenient in traffic.

Frequently asked questions